Planning a family trip to Europe? Europe offers cultural treasures, scenic beauty, and fun activities for all ages. Here are 10 kid-friendly destinations you should consider for your next family trip to Europe.
Classic Destinations for a Family Trip to Europe
Tuscany: A Feast for the Senses
Any list of the best places to visit in Europe has to include Italy. Tuscany captivates families with its picturesque countryside, charming villages, and world-renowned cuisine. Cycle through rolling vineyards, or make your own pasta in a cooking class. When you’re ready for some culture,, marvel at Renaissance art with a kid-friendly tour guide in Florence. Tuscany offers a perfect blend of beauty, culture, and culinary delights for your next family trip to Europe.
Stay: Grand Hotel Cavour
London: Where History Meets Modernity
London was the first international trip we took our girls on, and it was a perfect first travel experience. Step into the pages of history in London, where centuries-old landmarks blend seamlessly with modern attractions. Explore the Tower of London, watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, and take a spin on the London Eye for panoramic views of the city.
Stroll through one of the city’s many beautiful parks or charming neighborhoods like Notting Hill. Feeling tired? Tour the city on the hop–on, hop-off double–decker bus. Undoubtedly, my kids’ favorite experience was indulging in giant platters of sweets at high tea like the one at The Lane or The Ampersand.
Stay: The Resident Kensington
Copenhagen: Scandinavian Sunshine and Waterfront Wonders
Experience the Scandinavian sophistication and fairy-tale charm of Copenhagen, Denmark’s vibrant capital. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque canals of Nyhavn, lined with colorful buildings and lively restaurants. While the Little Mermaid is famous, it’s disappointingly tiny. Instead, head to Tivoli Gardens, an amusement park straight out of a storybook. In addition, a boat tour of Copenhagen’s scenic canals is great in any season.
Not all American kids will love typical Danish food (herring, anyone?). Fortunately, everyone can enjoy Danish delicacies like smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and fluffy æbleskiver (pancake balls).
f you head there in winter as we did, you can explore the charming Christmas markets and line-free rides at Tivoli Gardens. However, I’ve also been in January, and I do not recommend winter once the holidays are over. We overslept one day, and the sun had already set! Start planning your visit to Copenhagen’s Christmas markets.
Stay: Nimb Hotel
Vienna: Symphony of Culture and Charm
Vienna, the capital of Austria, enchants families with its rich history, grand architecture, and cultural treasures. Take a stroll through the imperial palaces of Schönbrunn and Hofburg, where emperors once roamed the opulent halls. The children’s museum at Schönbrunn will even give you a chance to dress up like royalty yourselves! Delight in the performances of the Spanish Riding School’s Lipizzaner horses or immerse yourselves in the life of Austria’s most famous empress, Sisi..
Don’t miss the chance to indulge in delicious pastries, like the many-layered sachertorte, at traditional Viennese cafes or explore the bustling Naschmarkt for a taste of local flavors. With its blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, Vienna promises a family vacation filled with unforgettable experiences. Start planning a holiday visit to experience the city’s many Christmas markets.
Stay: Hotel Alstadt
Salzburg: The Sound of Music and Scenic Splendor
Just a short train ride away from Vienna, Salzburg is nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Austrian Alps. This picturesque city is steeped in history and culture. Follow in Mozart’s footsteps as you explore the streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit iconic landmarks such as Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mirabell Palace.
Discover the magic of “The Sound of Music” with a tour of filming locations, or explore nearby lakes and mountains for hiking, biking, and outdoor fun. Hungry? Sample traditional Austrian cuisine like sausage and schnitzel at cozy taverns and beer gardens. Like Vienna, Salzburg makes an excellent choice for Christmas travel with a particularly charming market in the middle of town. Start planning your visit to Austria’s Christmas markets.
Stay: Schloss Monchstein
Munich: Bavarian Hospitality Makes for an Ideal Family Trip to Europe
Immerse your family in the warm hospitality and festive spirit of Munich, the capital of Bavaria in southern Germany. Explore the historic landmarks of Marienplatz and the Nymphenburg Palace, In the fall, experience the magic of Oktoberfest with traditional music, folk dances, and steins of frothy beer.
If you prefer nature, stroll through the Englischer Garten, one of the world’s largest urban parks. Don’t miss the local surfers catching a “wave” in the river. You can also get a workout while touring the city with one of my favorite warm-weather activities – a bike tour followed. by a visit to the famous Hofbrahaus or another of the cities many beer halls. If you have time, take a day trip to nearby fairy-tale castles like Neuschwanstein. With its blend of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and Bavarian traditions, Munich is an ideal European destination for families.
Stay: Moma1890 Boutique Hotel
Outdoor Adventures for a Family Trip to Europe
Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice
Iceland is a playground for outdoorsy families, offering a diverse landscape of glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal wonders. The adventures here are endless, from exploring ice caves to snorkeling between tectonic plates in crystal-clear waters. Don’t miss the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing across the sky if you’re there in fall or winter. Get the scoop on planning your own Iceland camper van road trip with kids.
While there, don’t miss this restaurant for Icelandic tomato soup!
Stay: 360 Boutique Selfoss
Portugal: A Playground of Outdoor Adventure
Lisbon and Porto delight with amazing food and culture (don’t sleep on pastel de nata!). However, Portugal also beckons adventurous families with its stunning landscapes and many outdoor activities. Families can dive into surfing and skateboarding at Noah Surf House, along Portugal’s picturesque coastline. Whether catching the perfect wave or perfecting a kickflip, Noah Surf House creates lasting memories. Moreover, Portugal offers endless outdoor adventures like hiking rugged cliffs and exploring hidden caves and beaches. With its warm hospitality and laid-back vibe, Portugal is one of the best places to visit in Europe.
15 restaurants in Portugal to add to your itinerary.
Stay: Corpo Santo Hotel
Hidden Gems for Your Next Family Trip to Europe
Ljubljana: Summer Serenity in Slovenia’s Capital
Escape to the charming city of Ljubljana, nestled in the heart of Slovenia, for a summer getaway filled with natural beauty. and smaller crowds. Wander along the leafy banks of the Ljubljanica River, where outdoor cafes and lively markets create a vibrant atmosphere. Explore the medieval Old Town, with its cobbled streets and colorful buildings, or climb to the top of Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views of the city below. Discover the lush greenery of Tivoli Park, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls, or venture into the surrounding countryside for hiking, cycling, and outdoor adventures.
Stay: Zlata Ladjica
Albania: An Unexpected Destination for a European Family Trip
Discover the hidden gem of Albania, an up-and-coming destination that promises a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled along the Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, Albania boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Explore the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Greek, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations once thrived, or wander through the cobblestone streets of historic towns like Gjirokastër and Berat, known for their well-preserved Ottoman architecture.
Hike through the rugged landscapes of the Accursed Mountains or venture into the lush valleys of Theth and Valbona, where traditional villages offer warm hospitality and authentic experiences. With its untamed beauty and rich cultural heritage, Albania is quickly emerging as a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences in the Balkans.
Stay: Hotel Mangalemi, Berat
Your kids will never forget a family trip to Europe, so what are you waiting for?
Adventurous Tastes is reader-supported. I have included affiliate links in this article and may receive commissions from purchases made through them.
2 comments